Rita Dove is an important American poet born in 1952 in Akron, Ohio. She graduated with an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and won the Pulitzer Prize for Thomas and Beulah. Her work is noted for its ability to capture contemporary social issues.
This poem by Rita Dove is about the playful conversation of a mother and daughter regarding their lady parts. But, why did Dove allude to the controversial picture book for children, ‘Mickey in the Night Kitchen’ in the title?
‘American Smooth’ is a thought-provoking poem in which Dove describes a memorable moment between two dance partners.Â
Rita Dove’s ‘Canary’ is a short poem that commemorates the life of Billie Holiday, an African American jazz singer.
‘Daystar’ by Rita Dove is a powerful and moving poem. It describes a mother’s life and the only moment of peace she has throughout her entire day.
‘My Mother Enters the Work Force’ by Rita Dove is a powerful poem about a mother who enters the workforce.Â
